Kaizer Chiefs out of MTN8 as Petersen’s error delivers Golden Arrows to semis

Kaizer Chiefs’ return to the MTN8 was a painful one as they were eliminated from the competition at the quarter-final following a 1-0 loss to Golden Arrows at FNB Stadium on Sunday.

Chiefs had not played MTN8 football for two years but they will not be in the semi-final after Khulekani Shezi’s 53^rd minute strike was enough to hand Arrows a massive win.

Goalkeeper Brandon Petersen was at fault for the goal Chiefs conceded as Shezi picked up the ball on the right wing, made a run into the box before bringing in a speculative low cross that somehow nestled into the back of the net.

Petersen’s mistake hands Arrows victory

Petersen was stationed two metres off his line and was wrongfooted when the ball came in, failing to cover his near post, and got a hand on the ball only to see it roll into the net.

Khulekani Shezi with a beauty! 🤯

Golden Arrows are finding their stride at FNB Stadium 👏👏

📺 Stream #MTN8 on DStv: https://t.co/B0jLrQW5cc pic.twitter.com/qJtiwAtcXG

— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) August 9, 2026

That was after a first half where neither team was able to breach the defence as both coach Fernando da Cruz of Chiefs and Pitso Dladla of Arrows opted for a cautious approach.

Arrows were full value for their money as they frustrated Chiefs, letting the Glamour Boys hog possession, but denying them the space to punish them.

This forced Amakhosi into long-range attempts with Lebohang Maboe coming close from just outside the box a couple of times.

Phili lively but with no end product

Da Cruz then introduced new signing Langelihle Phili just after the hour mark as his team were trailing and the ex-Stellenbosch winger was a live wire in his first 10 minutes on the pitch.

Phili constantly created space for himself on the left wing but could not get a way past the Arrows goal with his attempts either going over or hitting defenders.

Thabiso Monyane also had a half-chance after finding space on the right side but his tame effort was saved by the Arrows goalkeeper.

Defeat is a reality check for Chiefs who were hoping for a deep run in the competition and are now left with the PSL, CAF Confederation Cup and Carling Knockout to contest this season.